Managers guide to recognising signs of abuse
Our guide to recognising signs of abuse equips organisations to spot early warning signs, ensuring timely intervention and enhanced safety.
- 2 pages / 569 words.
- Last updated 08/02/2025.
- Designed for United Kingdom use.
- Suitable for use in other territories; check local laws first.
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text, or send by email.
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Managers guide to recognising signs of abuse
Introduction
This guidance is designed to help individuals recognise the signs of abuse in children and adults at risk. Abuse can take many forms, and early identification is crucial for safeguarding those who may be at risk of harm. All concerns should be reported following the appropriate safeguarding procedures.
Types and Signs of Abuse
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse involves causing physical harm or injury. Signs may include:
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Unexplained bruises, burns, fractures, or cuts
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Injuries that appear to have a pattern or occur frequently
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Reluctance to be touched or flinching when approached
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Inconsistent explanations for injuries
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
This type of abuse involves persistent emotional maltreatment that affects mental well-being. Signs may include:
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Low self-esteem or withdrawal from social interactions
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Anxiety, depression, or excessive fearfulness
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Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships
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Extreme behaviour changes, such as aggression or passivity
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a person to engage
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The guide to recognising signs of abuse provides essential information to help individuals identify potential abuse in various settings, such as the workplace or care environments. It covers physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, outlining key warning signs, behavioural changes, and physical indicators to watch for.
This guide aims to raise awareness and encourage timely intervention, ensuring that all individuals are protected and supported appropriately. It helps organisations meet their safeguarding responsibilities and create a safe environment for employees and service users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Managers guide to recognising signs of abuse is designed to be flexible and suitable for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses and charities. It follows UK employment law best practice, so even if you don't have an in-house HR team, you can confidently apply it.
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Is this template compliant with 2025 UK employment law?
Absolutely. All of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
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Can I customise it for my organisation?
Yes, we highlight the areas that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
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Do I get instant access?
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
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What if I need more help, not just this template?
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include this template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
